BMW has been making the 5er Series sedan since 1972, when the line replaced the BMW New Six (2500/2800/Bavaria). The 5er was the first BMW to carry the new BMW model designation, used still today, an idea conceived by BMW marketing chief Bob Lutz and later adopted by Audi and Mercedes-Benz. The 5er’s designation came about because it was the fifth of the New Series of models that followed the V-8 and the Isetta. (For individual models within the range, the first digit represents the model and the second and third digits approximate the engine’s displacement in deciliters.)

The basic 5er Series configuration hasn’t changed since 1972: front engine, rear-wheel drive, 50-50 weight balance, good mixture of ride comfort and handling, and room for four adults with luggage. Since its launch, more than 5.5 million of the 5er Series have been sold.